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The Ketogenic Diet is a medically prescribed diet which causes ketones to build up in the body (ketosis) which can result in improved seizure control.
First things first: what is ketosis?
Ketosis occurs when the body changes from using the end-product of carbohydrate breakdown, (glucose) to using the end-product of fat breakdown (ketones) for energy production. The body produces ketones when fasting, or when a high fat, low carbohydrate diet is provided. It is believed that this build-up of ketone bodies in the blood is responsible for seizure control in some patients. Following the Ketogenic Diet carefully allows the body to stay in a constant state of ketosis.
What is the Ketogenic Diet?
The Ketogenic Diet is an individually designed and medically prescribed diet. It strictly limits carbohydrate, and provides a high fat and an adequate protein intake for growth and health. It is not a natural diet. Meals are designed by the dedicated Ketogenic Diet dietitian, and the proportions of fats, carbohydrates and proteins are carefully measured out for each meal at home. A typical meal will include:
- a small amount of protein (meat, egg, cheese, etc.)
- a small amount of carbohydrates (fruit or vegetable)
- a larger amount of fat (heavy cream, butter, oil, mayonnaise, etc.).
Children requiring a feeding tube can follow this diet using a special formula.
Just like the medications used for epilepsy, the Ketogenic Diet can have medical side effects. Though it is usually well tolerated, regular medical supervision is provided once the diet has been started. In some patients, for whom medications have failed to control seizures, or cause significant side effects, the Ketogenic Diet offers an alternative approach that can significantly improve seizure control. Some children become seizure free, while others can achieve a reduction in anticonvulsant drugs or dosages.
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